PTHR: Redefining Progressive HR Consulting

This blog post is part of 50+ case studies of self-managing organizations we created for the 2024 inaugural ZeroDX awards. These organizations embody the principles of RenDanHeYi in their work structures:

• Zero Distance to customer: Decision what to build is based on insights from the marketplace

• Autonomy: Small teams with full decision-making autonomy enable speed in execution

• Shared Rewards: Everyone in the micro-enterprise participates in its financial success.

Introducing PTHR

Founded in 2012 by Perry Timms, PTHR (People and Transformational HR) is a UK-based consultancy that specializes in self-management in HR, organizational transformation, and progressive work practices. Their mission is to create "better business for a better world," and they do this by embracing human-centered design, systems thinking, and sustainability.

PTHR is a certified B Corporation and has been globally recognized for its commitment to ethical business practices. In 2022, they ranked in the top 5% of all B Corps worldwide, and in 2024, Perry Timms received the WorldBlu Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to democratic workplaces and freedom-centered organizations.

Unlike many consultancies that preach transformation but operate traditionally, PTHR is a living testbed for the future of work. Their commitment to self-management, co-creation, and decentralized autonomy aligns with RenDanHeYi principles, making them a model organization for progressive HR and business transformation.

Organizational Structure

PTHR’s structure rejects traditional hierarchy, replacing it with a network of decentralized, self-managed teams. The company operates through a constellation of specialized teams, each led by a Practice Lead in fields like organizational psychology, sustainability, and digital production. The teams work collaboratively and autonomously, allowing for greater flexibility and innovation.

This self-managed structure empowers employees to take ownership of their work, fostering a culture of trust and accountability. PTHR's commitment to decentralized operations is further reflected in its "work from anywhere" policy, as well as a four-day working week, which enhances work-life balance while maintaining productivity.

Their structure exemplifies how a modern organization can thrive without rigid hierarchies, instead relying on collaborative leadership and shared accountability. The workflow is organized not into traditional verticals but in Stacks. Each Stack is owned and partnered by two members of the team. It also translates into how they manage knowledge and information as well as initiatives that aren’t client-driven work. For example one of their Stacks is Sustainability; Owned by Kirsten and co-owned by Catalina, this includes all work for BCorp certification and communityship and has resulted in a "spin out" enterprise called ARC (A Regenerative Culture), helping clients and partners be more green, net zero and climate active.

PTHR’s structure is proof that businesses don’t need a hierarchy to be successful—they need trust, autonomy, and shared purpose.

Zero Distance to Clients

PTHR’s decentralized HR consulting model puts clients at the center of everything. Unlike traditional consultancies that rely on top-down project management, PTHR’s teams co-create solutions with their clients, ensuring:

• Faster problem-solving – No waiting for approvals from senior executives.
• Tailored solutions – Each client gets a strategy designed for their unique challenges.
• Long-term partnerships – Clients collaborate directly with the team, not just account managers.

Internal Culture: People-First & Purpose-Driven

PTHR’s culture is deeply rooted in values of justice, belonging, and continuous learning.

The company promotes a holistic approach to employee well-being, emphasizing energy and care in the workplace.

PTHR’s commitment to a regenerative culture extends beyond individual well-being to encompass broader social and environmental goals. Employees are offered autonomy in their work, aligning with the company’s principles of self-determination and applied psychology, which optimize their contributions to both the organization and its clients.

While PTHR doesn't operate a traditional profit-sharing mechanism, its business model prioritizes prosperity over profit, ensuring that success is measured not just by financial performance but by positive impact on people, communities, and the planet. PTHR has open salaries and has just introduced self-set Maternity, Study, and Annual leave for the team.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PTHR serves as a trailblazer in progressive business practices, demonstrating how decentralization, purpose-driven work, and human-centered design can create lasting value for both organizations and society. Their commitment to continuous innovation and ethical responsibility makes them a leading force in reshaping the future of work.